Paraguay erupted in celebration on Friday after its men’s national football team secured a long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 16 years.
A tense 0-0 draw with Ecuador in Quito was enough to clinch the Albirroja the final automatic qualification spot from South America, sparking nationwide scenes of jubilation.
President Santiago Peña wasted no time in declaring an impromptu public holiday, with thousands of fans already pouring into the streets waving flags, chanting songs, and lighting fireworks to celebrate the achievement.
Paraguay last featured at the FIFA World Cup in 2010 in South Africa, when they reached the quarter-finals for the first time in their history before being eliminated by eventual winners Spain.
The 2026 tournament — co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada — will mark their ninth World Cup appearance overall.
“This is a day to honor the epic campaign that has inspired the entire nation,” President Peña said in his announcement. “There are kids who have never seen the Albirroja at a World Cup. There are Paraguayans who have waited a lifetime to experience this moment again.”
While some critics argued that declaring a holiday was an overreaction, the overwhelming mood across the country was one of pride and relief.
Paraguay endured a difficult qualifying journey but showed resilience in key matches, including crucial results against regional heavyweights.
Fans in Asunción and beyond celebrated through the night, with public squares transformed into seas of red, white, and blue. For many, the qualification represents not just a football triumph, but a unifying national moment.
The Albirroja will now turn their focus to preparations for the 2026 World Cup, where the memories of South Africa 2010 will fuel hopes of another historic run.